Konark, Dec 2: The 36th edition of the world-renowned Konark Festival was inaugurated by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday, with the majestic Konark Sun Temple providing a stunning backdrop. This five-day cultural extravaganza is one of the state’s most celebrated platforms for classical dance and attracts art lovers and performers from across the globe.
In his inaugural address, Chief Minister Majhi highlighted the spiritual essence of classical dance forms, describing them as more than just artistic expressions, but as profound journeys toward the divine. He emphasized that the Konark Festival not only showcases the world-famous Odissi dance but also brings together various classical dance traditions, making it an important event for preserving and promoting India's rich cultural heritage.
This year’s festival features performances from renowned artists in various classical dance styles, including Bharatanatyam, Kathakali, Manipuri, Kathak, alongside Odissi. Majhi praised the diversity of performances, noting that the event serves as a vital platform for sharing the rich cultural tapestry of India with the world.
During the inauguration, the Chief Minister also launched the 15th International Sand Art Festival at the nearby Chandrabhaga Beach. The festival this year has attracted 143 sand artists from across India and several countries, including Japan, Spain, Russia, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Sri Lanka. The global participation highlights the festival’s growing international appeal. Majhi extended his gratitude to Padma Sudarsan Pattnaik, the festival’s brand ambassador, for his tireless efforts in promoting sand art on global platforms.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister inaugurated the Subhadra Shakti Mela, which showcases more than 200 varieties of handicrafts, organic products, and locally made items. Over 200 women-led self-help groups (SHGs) from across the state are participating in the mela, displaying their crafts at 150 stalls. Majhi underscored the importance of such initiatives in empowering women entrepreneurs and creating avenues for financial independence.
The Subhadra Shakti Mela aims to generate national and international interest in products created by women, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within local communities. Majhi expressed his hope that this fair would boost the visibility of women-led businesses, driving their success through craftsmanship, innovation, and hard work.
In attendance at the event were Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, Puri MLA Sunil Mohanty, Pipili MLA Ashrit Pattanayak, Satyabadi MLA Om Prakash Mishra, Kakatpur MLA Tusharkanti Behera, Brahmagiri MLA Upasna Mohapatra, Puri District Collector Divyajyoti Parida, Odisha Sahitya Akademi Secretary Chandrasekhar Hota, and other dignitaries.
The Konark Festival, with its cultural vibrancy, continues to stand as a symbol of Odisha’s artistic heritage, bringing together dance, art, and culture in one of the most picturesque settings in the world.
